Whales

HÚSAVÍK – THE WHALE CAPITAL OF ICELAND

Icelandic waters make a home for around 24 species of whales, and north Iceland is extraordinary. In our bay, Skjálfandi, we have the chance to encounter numerous types, shapes and sizes of whales; from the very smallest to the very biggest and loads in between. This is of course wild nature and indeed unpredictable, but the chances of seeing whales are very high.

To learn more about the whale species spotted in our bay, please click on the whales below. Also check out our Code of Conduct for responsible whale watching.

Common Whale Surface Behaviours

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to see whales?There is no time of the day when we are more likely to encounter whales. Nature is unpredictable and no two tours are the same – every trip is a new adventure.

Are whales seen on all tours?Our whale watching tours take place in unpredictable, wild nature. The chances of seeing whales are up to 99%, but if no whales (dolphins included) are seen on a tour, passengers are welcome to join a GG1 Whale Watching tour free of charge, depending on availability.

Which are the most common whales in Skjálfandi Bay?Our most common whale species are harbour porpoise, white-beaked dolphin, minke whale, humpback whale and blue whale.